From the Photographer: “Spend five minutes with Jessica and Trip, and you can tell just how much they are in love with each other. I was lucky enough to be able to spend the day with them, documenting their amazing wedding. Jessica’s love for historic venues, lace, tea cups and family is what inspired the decor. She wanted an english garden feel, and thanks to Barbara at Barbara’s Brides, she had her dream wedding planned to perfection in less than 4 months!” ~Elizabeth Jayne

What was the one thing about your venue that made you know it was the one?

Jessica: It was love at first sight (which is quite a different story from when I met my husband!). When I walked into the ballroom at “The Mansion,” sparks flew, and I immediately had visions of what our wedding would look like. I saw my bridesmaids getting ready in the quaint bedrooms, my dad’s face as I walked down the stairs, white flowers, lace tablecloths, and tons of dancing in the grand ballroom. Other venues were beautiful, but this one was inspiring.

What three (3) details from your wedding were your favorites?

Jessica:
1) The incredible band and the dance party that ensued because of them—months and months later guests still raved about them! 2) The mustaches we handed out as favors during the reception. They got people laughing and made for the most hilarious photos (of which I’ve seen on many mantelpieces!) 3) One of my bridesmaids made “Well Wishes” cards where guests could write us advice or just sweet notes. They wrote the most hilarious, heartwarming, tear-jerking things. It was a great way to connect with all our guests even if we didn’t get to spend much time with them at the wedding, and now that we’ve moved across the country, they serve as sweet reminders of the people we love back home.

If you could offer one piece of advice for other couples planning their wedding, what would it be?

Jessica: Focus on what really matters to you about your wedding, and let the rest be less than perfect. There will always be more to plan, add, or improve, but by prioritizing, instead of sweating over the smallest details, you’ll be able to let go on your wedding day, have fun, enjoy your new husband or wife, and celebrate with the people closest to you.

Give us the one moment in your wedding day you can’t stop thinking about.

Jessica: Dancing to Thriller while sweating and wearing a mustache next to the lead singer of the band, my new husband, and hundreds of our closest friends.